A bedside table is more than just a place to put your lamp and alarm clock. It’s a crucial piece of bedroom furniture that helps keep your sanctuary organised, functional and stylish. Yet, finding the right one can be a challenge. With so many options, from a simple nightstand to a feature-packed bedside cabinet, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the choices. We'll walk through the key considerations for selecting a bedside table that fits your space and lifestyle and share some of our top recommendations to help you make a confident decision.
Before you start browsing, a little planning goes a long way. Focusing on these key areas will help you narrow down the options and find a piece that you'll be happy with for years to come.
The first rule of furniture shopping is to measure your space. A bedroom side table should be proportionate to your bed and the room itself. A good guideline is to choose a table that is roughly the same height as the top of your mattress, or a few centimetres below. This makes it easy to reach for a glass of water or turn off your alarm. If you have limited space, a small bedside table with a compact footprint can provide essential surface area without feeling cluttered.
Think about what you need to keep close at hand. Do you prefer a clean, minimalist surface, or do you need to store books, charging cables and other personal items?
bedside table with drawers is an excellent choice for tucking away clutter, keeping essentials organised and dust-free.bedside cabinet with a door offers concealed storage that’s perfect for larger items.Your bedside table should complement your existing bedroom décor. A wooden bedside table can bring warmth and a classic feel to a room, with solid pine offering durability and a rustic charm. For a brighter, more contemporary look, a white bedside table is a versatile option that fits well with minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired interiors. If your style is sleek and functional, a modern bedside table might incorporate materials like metal and engineered wood, often with clean lines and innovative features.
Here are a few standout options that cater to different needs and styles, selected to help you find a practical and stylish addition to your bedroom.
Why It Stands Out: This table is a great example of a modern bedside table that merges technology with practical design. The integrated app-controlled RGB lighting allows you to set the mood, while the built-in charging station with two AC outlets and two USB ports eliminates the need for messy extension cords.
Pros:
bedside table with charging station and customisable LED lights.Who is it for? This is an ideal choice for tech-savvy individuals, students or anyone who wants their furniture to be as functional as it is stylish. It’s perfect for keeping devices charged and essentials organised in a compact space.
Why It Stands Out: The Arlington model offers timeless Shaker-inspired elegance. Its clean lines and neutral white and oak-effect finish make it a versatile piece that can blend seamlessly into a wide range of bedroom decors, from traditional to contemporary.
Pros:
white bedside table with a minimalist design that won't go out of fashion.Who is it for? This is for someone who appreciates classic, understated design. If you’re looking for a simple and elegant bedside table with drawers that offers practical storage without overpowering the room, the Arlington is a strong contender.
Why It Stands Out: For those who prioritise natural materials and generous storage, this Panama wooden bedside table is an excellent option. Crafted from solid pine with a warm oak stain, it brings a sense of durability and rustic character to the bedroom. With three drawers, it offers more storage than many standard bedside tables.
Pros:
Who is it for? This table is perfect for anyone in need of significant bedside storage or those who value the quality and longevity of solid wood furniture. It’s a substantial piece that works well in master bedrooms or guest rooms where extra storage is a priority.
If you haven't found the perfect match yet, or if you'd like to see a wider variety of styles and storage configurations, there are many more choices available. From single-drawer units to larger cabinets, finding the right piece is all about matching your specific needs.
Explore our full range of Drawer Storage Tables to find the perfect fit for your home.
What is the ideal height for a bedside table? A good rule of thumb is to choose a nightstand that is level with or slightly below the top of your mattress. This typically falls between 50 and 65 cm. This height makes it comfortable to reach for items from your bed without having to sit up or strain.
How do I choose between a bedside table with drawers and one with open shelves? This depends on your storage needs and aesthetic preference. A bedside table with drawers is excellent for hiding clutter and keeping personal items organised and dust-free. An open-shelf design is great for displaying books or decorative items and can make a small bedside table feel less bulky and more open.
What's the difference between a bedside table and a nightstand? In the UK, the terms bedside table, bedside cabinet and nightstand are often used interchangeably. They all refer to a small table or cabinet placed next to a bed. The specific design—whether it has drawers, a cupboard, or open shelves—might lead to a more specific name, but their core function remains the same.